System and method of soil distribution, such as a soil blend, capable of being blown into place

ABSTRACT

A soil distribution system, and particularly a method of blowing topsoil, using an improved topsoil blend and specialized equipment, onto selected surfaces, including sloped surfaces. The topsoil blend may be placed either via traditional or selected placement means including placement by blowing the mixture into place. The topsoil blend may be blown through a manipulatable distribution line onto the surface, including areas which may be substantially inaccessible. A selected aerobic compost tea may be combined with the soil distribution operations such that the tea is distributed and intermixed with the soil as the soil is blown into place. Greensand may be distributed over the surface prior to blowing the soil in place and the soil is then distributed over the layer of greensand.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisionalapplication No. 60/128,491, filed Apr. 9, 1999.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This invention relates to soil mixtures and a soil distributionsystem, and more particularly, to an organic soil mixture and a soildistribution system that blows the soil mixture onto selected places onflat or sloped surfaces.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Healthy topsoil and vegetation that grows in the topsoil arenatural and effective stabilizers of soil layers on flat or slopedsurfaces. If topsoil is removed from an area on a surface due to alandslide, development, or erosion, the topsoil should be replaced toensure continued stability of the remaining soil and vegetation on thesurface. The topsoil can be replaced naturally over a long, long time,or the topsoil can be manually replaced in a much shorter time period.Manually, replacing the topsoil on sloped areas has proven to be a dualchallenge. The first challenge is in creating a soil mix with balancedpermeability and stability characteristics for the particular geographiclocation. The second challenge is to physically access the slope anddeposit enough of the soil mix to replace the topsoil in an efficientand economically justifiable manner.

[0004] Nature's process of death and rebirth creates the fertiletopsoils, but nature's process is very slow. In the fall season, whendeciduous trees, shrubs, vegetables and perennials die back and leavesfall to the ground, decomposition begins. Decomposition cycles createlayers of topsoil, so the topsoil builds up layer by layer over timewith each decomposition cycle. The variety of plant materials supportedin these soils differs as the soil changes. Plants that need a lessnutrient-rich soil will grow and die back, continuing the decompositioncycle and as the soil richens in nutrients, the plant varieties willchange accordingly, continuing to add to the decomposition and buildupof topsoil. Micro-organisms are a key ingredient in the decompositionprocess as they break down the particles into the necessary elements forfertile soil. It takes nature an incredibly long time to create just onefoot of topsoil. Yet this process that takes nature so very long can bewiped away in one pass of a bulldozer, or by a landslide on a slope, orby the effects of erosion over a relatively short period of time.

[0005] Fertile topsoil is soil teaming with life. It contains beneficialmicro-organisms, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, microarthropods, earthworms and other insects vital to soil structure andnutrient distribution. The fertile topsoil has a natural balance ofnutrient and mineral ingredients, it has the natural ingredients of thefood chain, that supplies us with minerals through the plant materialsand fruits that grow in the topsoil Live, healthy topsoil also has anatural permeability and stability that facilitates healthy growth ofvegetation Healthy, living topsoil filters and/or binds pollutantsbefore they can reach waterways or aquifers.

[0006] Many areas, such as agricultural land or areas where there islittle or no crop rotation, such as vineyards or orchards, have beennegatively impacted by the inability to get topsoil to replace soildeficient in nutrients, microbes, or organic matter in a cost-efficientmanner. Traditional transportation of topsoil to these locationsincluded hauling the topsoil from trucks or large topsoil deposits tothe selected areas by wheelbarrows, buckets, bags or conveyors.

[0007] In other areas, erosion and the development of land often stuntnature's progress with respect to topsoil. Hillsides are acutelyvulnerable to topsoil erosion and, particularly in the Northwest regionof the United States, are at risk for having a landslide activity. Thesame land characteristics that make hillsides vulnerable to erosion andlandslides also make the hillsides difficult to repair. The steeper theslope, the more difficult it is to get people and equipment on thehillside itself in order to replace topsoil It is also more difficultfor standard topsoil to remain stable on the slope. Further, access tothe slope is often very difficult because of existing site conditions,such as heavy vegetation, houses or other landscaping that prevents siteaccess. Other hard to reach areas include landslide areas, waterfronthillsides where floating barges cannot land to off-load equipment andwhere slope severity does not allow equipment to descend, backyards withsubstantially no access, vineyards and orchards, and rooftop plantersand container gardens.

[0008] Traditionally, repairing hillsides that were clear of obstaclesincluded placing netting or other geo-tech fabrics over the repair area.However, both netting and geo-tech fabrics are cumbersome and expensive,and are not a realistic option when there are obstacles, such asexisting partial vegetation cover, on the hillside. Geo-tech fabricshave the potential to damage roots by cutting or girdling.

[0009] Replacing the topsoil on a hillside encountered otherdifficulties including hillsides that were too steep to maneuverequipment on. Track equipment, such as excavators, bulldozers, trackloaders, track hoes, motor graders, etc., can safely maneuver on up to a3 to 1 slope. Manual work can continue on slopes steeper than 3 to 1,however, a 2 to 1 slope becomes difficult for manual work and virtuallyimpossible for wheelbarrows.

[0010] Conventional techniques for replacing topsoil on steep slopesinclude using a chute system, in which one or more chutes are positionedover the hillside from the top of the hillside, and buckets full oftopsoil are slid down the chutes as a means to manually bring thetopsoil down to workers standing on the steep slopes. Conventionaltopsoil does not slide well on any surface due to its consistency, sothe topsoil must be transported in the buckets down the chutes. Thisprocess is very labor intensive, and only works when access is availableto the slope from the top of the slope, and the hillside is such thatthe chutes can be placed on the slopes and maneuvered as needed intoparticular areas for soil application across the hillside. Buildings,roads, or inaccessible areas on the top of the slope hamper the layingof the chutes, so the buckets are manually transported down the hillsidewithout the benefit of a chute.

[0011] Bark, compost mulch, hydroseeding and pea gravel are all itemsthat in the past have been used to cover existing topsoil or as asubstitute for topsoil in inaccessible places. Each of these items donot provide the benefits of topsoil for stability and vegetation growth,and they retain many of the same disadvantages with respect to access toand application on hillsides, as discussed above. Importantly, thesematerials do not provide stabilization of the slope in the way thattopsoil does. Bark and compost mulch are used as a cover mulch over anexisting planted area. Hydroseeding is a process of spraying a liquid(e.g., water) and seed mixture over the top of existing soil. Thehydroseed mixture is a binding mix to hold the seeds in position on theexisting topsoil until they germinate. Pea gravel is used on slopes andin other areas to address drainage concerns.

[0012] A conveyor belt system has also been used to place soil indifficult places. The conveyor belt system, however, provides relativelyimprecise placement of soil, and the system is not practicably useablein areas containing trees and densely planted shrubs without causingdamage to these plants. Further, relocating the conveyor belt system todispense the soil from the top, bottom or sides is time consuming andlabor intensive.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention overcomes the limitations of the prior artand provides additional benefits. Under one aspect of the invention, animproved soil mixture capable of being placed on a surface, includingsloped surfaces either via traditional or selected placement meansincluding placement by blowing the mixture into place. Under anotheraspect of the invention, this soil mixture is blown through amanipulatable distribution line onto the surface, including areas whichmay be substantially inaccessible.

[0014] Additional aspects of the invention include combining a selectedaerobic compost tea with the soil distribution operations such that thetea is distributed and intermixed with the soil as the soil is blowninto place. Under another aspect of the invention, sand, rich inpotassium and trace minerals of prehistoric origin is distributed overthe surface prior to blowing the soil in place and the soil is thendistributed over the layer of greensand. Under another aspect of thisinvention, fired/calcined diatomaceous earth is added or substituted inthe mixture to decrease initial surface moisture content but increasemoisture retention capabilities. Under another aspect of this invention,dry mycorrhizal spores are added to speed the natural production offungi. Under another aspect of this invention, a powdered or granulatedcorn glutin is added to prevent the growth of undesirable plants.

[0015] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a soildistribution system adapted for blowing a soil mixture onto selectedplaces on flat or sloped surfaces. The soil distribution systemcomprises a topsoil pump having first and second ends; a hopperconnected to the pump at the first end; a first topsoil hose having adistribution end and a soil intake end, the first topsoil hose beingconnected to the second end of the pump via the soil intake end; a tankfor holding a liquid soil mixture additive, the tank having an outletportal; a second liquid additive hose having a discharge end and aliquid intake end, the second liquid additive hose being connected tothe outlet portal of the tank via the liquid intake end; wherein thedistribution end of the first topsoil hose and the discharge end of thesecond liquid additive hose are in operational relationship with eachother such that when the soil distribution system is in operation, thesoil mixture and the liquid additive are capable of intermixing duringthe blowing of the soil mixture.

[0016] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a soilmixture adapted for use with a soil distribution system that is capableof blowing the soil mixture onto selected places associated with flat orsloped surfaces. The soil mixture comprises an organic fertilizercomponent that consists essentially of plant residues and a first animalexcrement component, wherein the amount of the organic fertilizercomponent ranges from about 1 to 3 pounds per cubic yard of the soilmixture; a feathermeal component that consists essentially of groundpoultry feathers, wherein the amount of the feathermeal component rangesfrom about 4 to 8 pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture; anaggregate component that includes gravel, wherein the amount of theaggregate component ranges from about 1200 to 1600 pounds per cubic yardof the soil mixture; a composted organic material component thatconsists essentially of sawdust and a second animal excrement component,wherein the composted organic material component includes a plurality ofdiscrete particles with each of the plurality of particles having alength of less than ⅝ of an inch, and wherein the amount of thecomposted organic material component ranges from about 200 to 700 poundsper cubic yard of the soil mixture; an organic waste component that isat least about 35% humic acid by weight, wherein the amount of theorganic waste component ranges from about 20 to 30 pounds of the soilmixture; a kelp meal component that consists essentially of ground kelp,wherein the amount of the kelp meal component ranges from about 2 to 4pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture; a peat moss component in anamount that ranges from about 18 to 25 pounds per cubic yard of the soilmixture; a ground or granular rock phosphate component in an amount thatranges from about 0.5 to 3 pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture; asand component in an amount that ranges from about 100 to 700 pounds percubic yard of the soil mixture; and a sawdust component in an amountranging from about 155 to 300 pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture.

[0017] In further embodiments, the soil mixture further has one or moreof the following characteristics: the organic fertilizer component has aNPK rating (i.e., ratio of nitrogen to phosphorous to potassium on amolar basis) of about 6-4-4; the feathermeal component has a NPK ratingof about 12-1-0; the sand component is greensand; the first and secondanimal excrements are the same or different. In still furtherembodiments, the soil mixture further comprises: a bloodmeal componentin an amount that ranges up to about 3 pounds per cubic yard of the soilmixture (optionally the blood meal component has a NPK rating of about13-1-0); a diatomaceous earth component in an amount ranging up to about500 pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture; a corn gluten componentin an amount ranging up to about 8 pounds per cubic yard of the soilmixture; a plurality of mycorrihiza spores; lime in an amount ranging upto about 3 pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture; an aerobic composttea in an amount ranging up to about 5 gallons per cubic yard of thesoil mixture; and a plurality of earthworms.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] In the drawings, like reference numbers identify similar elementsor steps. For ease in identifying the discussion of any particularelement, the most significant digit in a reference number refers to thefigure number in which that element is first introduced (e.g., element204 is first introduced and discussed with respect to FIG. 2).

[0019]FIG. 1 is a schematic view of one embodiment of the inventionshowing a soil blowing operation on a hillside.

[0020]FIG. 2 is an enlarged isometric view of a modified agitator (shownin hidden lines) and a hopper used in the soil blowing operation of FIG.1.

[0021]FIG. 3 is a plan view of the hopper and the agitator of FIG. 2.

[0022]FIG. 4 is an enlarged isometric view of hoses used in the soilblowing operation of FIG. 1 for conveying the soil and an aerobiccompost tea through the open end of the hoses.

[0023]FIG. 5 is a schematic flow chart of a start-up procedure for oneembodiment of the soil blowing operation.

[0024]FIG. 6 is a schematic flow chart of a shut-down procedure for oneembodiment of the soil blowing operation.

[0025]FIG. 7 is an isometric view of an agitator in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

[0026]FIG. 8 is a front view (showing various dimensions) of theagitator depicted in FIG. 7.

[0027]FIG. 9 is a top view (showing various dimensions) of the agitatordepicted in FIG. 7.

[0028]FIG. 10 is a normal to outside tine view (showing variousdimensions) of the agitator depicted in FIG. 7.

[0029]FIG. 11 is a bottom view (showing various dimensions) of theagitator depicted in FIG. 7.

[0030]FIG. 12 is a right side view of the agitator depicted in FIG. 7.

[0031] FIGS. B1-5 provide test data associated with Example 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] A soil distribution system and a soil mixture capable of beingblown into place by the soil distribution system, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, are described herein with referenceto the Figures. In the following description, numerous specific detailsare provided, such as pump characteristics, hose diameters, soilcomponent variations, tea distribution method, etc., to provide athorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled inthe relevant art, however, will recognize that the invention can bepracticed without one or more of the specific details, or with otherequipment, methods, etc. In other instances, well-known structures oroperations are not shown or not described in detail to avoid obscuringaspects of the invention.

[0033] The present invention is directed toward a soil placement system,and particularly directed toward a method of blowing topsoil, using animproved soil mixture and specialized equipment onto selected surfaces,such as a steep hillside The soil placement system is effective fordelivering soil to difficult-to-reach locations, such as locationssubstantially inaccessible using conventional soil-distributingtechniques. This includes landslide areas, difficult-to-reach hillsides,vineyards, orchards, difficult-to-reach backyards and rooftop plantersor container gardens, and wherever it has become cost-prohibitive orvirtually impossible for topsoil to be applied, either with conventionalequipment or manually.

[0034] The topsoil, in accordance with an embodiment, is a blend ofmaterials that provide a lightweight, permeable, completely organic, andnutrient rich topsoil blend. This topsoil blend provides severaladvantages, including an increased ability to adhere to the subgrade,improved and balanced permeability, wholly organic, the ability topromote rapid root growth, and a cost-effective system of placement. Theingredients, the way in which it is mixed, stored, and utilized, makesblowing of this topsoil blend by this method possible.

[0035] The method of blowing the topsoil blend quickly and efficientlyprovides natural, nutrient-rich, highly permeable and viable topsoildirectly to selected locations in a very cost-effective manner. Byapplying this topsoil blend on landslide areas, reforestation areas, anderoded hillsides, the process of replacing topsoil is significantly spedup as compared to the time required for topsoil to build up naturally.In selected embodiments, the topsoil blend is combined with an aerobiccompost tea, such as Micro-Brewer Tea, U.S. patent application Ser. No.08/772,279, as the topsoil is distributed. The above-mentioned U.S.patent application is hereby incorporated by reference. The aerobiccompost tea works with the topsoil blend to promote healthy topsoil forvegetation growth.

[0036] The topsoil blend includes a mixture of ingredients to create asoil with a balanced permeability retaining enough moisture for theplant roots to thrive, while allowing all excess moisture to percolatethrough the soil naturally and therefore prevent erosion. Further, thistopsoil blend is 100% organic. Organic soil provides the additionaladvantage of replicating nature. The addition of chemicals to a topsoilcould kill micro-organisms, deaden soil fertility, and eliminate thebalance that makes the topsoil capable of nourishing plant growth.

[0037] An illustrative embodiment of the topsoil blend includes ablended formula based on a 1 cubic yard quantity. This mixture includes:preferably zero to 3 pounds, more preferably 1 to 2.5 pounds, and mostpreferably 2 pounds of a quick release nitrogen source; preferably 1 to3 pounds, more preferably 1.5 to 2.5 pounds, and most preferably 2pounds of a general broadcast fertilizer; preferably zero to 5 pounds,more preferably 1 to 3 pounds, and most preferably 1.5 pounds ofpowdered limestone; preferably 4 to 8 pounds, more preferably 5 to 7pounds, and most preferably 6 pounds of a slow release nitrogen source;preferably zero to 1600 pounds, more preferably 500 to 1300 pounds, andmost preferably 1232 pounds of preferably ⅜″, more preferably {fraction(5/16)}″, most preferably 14″ minus aggregate; preferably 200 to 700pounds, more preferably 300 to 500 pounds, and most preferably 418pounds of preferably ¾″ minus, more preferably ½″ minus, and mostpreferably ¼″ minus ground/composted organic material mixed with acomposted organic waste product; preferably zero to 300 pounds, morepreferably 100 to 200 pounds, and most preferably 155 pounds ofpreferably ¾″ minus, more preferably ½″ minus, and most preferably ¼″minus ground/uncomposted organic material; preferably 10 to 50 pounds,more preferably 20 to 30 pounds, and most preferably 26 pounds oforganic waste comprised of 30% to 50% humic acids and 30% to 50% carbon;preferably zero to 5 pounds, more preferably 1 to 4 pounds, and mostpreferably 2.2 pounds of a trace mineral source containing 50 to 75trace minerals; preferably zero to 3 pounds, more preferably 1 to 2.5pounds, and most preferably 2 pounds of an acidic broadcast fertilizer;preferably 10 to 30 pounds, more preferably 18 to 25 pounds, and mostpreferably 22.3 pounds of dried/ground/compressed fiberous plant-basedmaterials; preferably zero to 4 pounds, more preferably 0.5 to 3 pounds,and most preferably 2 pounds of powdered or granular phosphate;preferably zero to 700 pounds, more preferably 100 to 300 pounds, andmost preferably 112 pounds of {fraction (1/16)}″ minus silicategranules. Alternative embodiments include the addition or substitutionof preferably zero to 500 pounds, more preferably 25 to 100 pounds, andmost preferably 50 pounds of fired/calcined diatomaceous earth;preferably zero to 50 pounds, more preferably 10 to 30 pounds, and mostpreferably 20 pounds of sand, rich in potassium and trace minerals; zeroto 20 pounds, more preferably 5 to 15 pounds, and most preferably 10pounds of dry mycorrhizal spores; preferably zero to 10 pounds, morepreferably 3 to 8 pounds, and most preferably 5 pounds of granulated orpowdered com-gluten; preferably 1 to 5 gallons, more preferably 2 to 4gallons, and most preferably 3 gallons of aerobic microbial liquidcompost extract; preferably zero to 500, more preferably 100 to 400, andmost preferably 250 individual epigeic, endogeic, and anecic earthworms

[0038] Rock phosphate is a natural mined mineral ground into a finepowder and granulated for ease of spreading. Total phosphorous contentis approximately 27%, calcium 24% and magnesium 29%, and the rockphosphate contains 11 trace minerals. Bloodmeal is an example of aquick-release nitrogen fertilizer that promotes rapid growth and highyields in addition to promoting stem and leaf growth. Feather meal is anexample of a slow-release nitrogen source that promotes stem and leafgrowth Kelp meal is an example of a trace mineral source made from driedand ground kelp, more specifically, Ascophyllurn Nodosum, that grows inthe cold waters of the North Atlantic off the coast of Norway, Icelandand Nova Scotia. Ascophyllum Nodosum has one of the richest, mostcomplete and balanced array of trace minerals known. The kelp plantextracts at least 68 minerals from the sea in a precise and balancedportion. Kelp meal contains potassium, vitamins, amino acids and naturalgrowth promoting hormones. Kelp meal helps the friability of the soiland stimulates the beneficial organisms in the soil.

[0039] Complete organic fertilizer is an example of a general broadcastfertilizer that includes blood meal, feather meal, steamed bone meal,kelp meal, langeinite, and dolomite lime. This mixture of solublenutrients give plants a fast start, and slow release nutrients to keepthem growing. Organobloom organic fertilizer is an example of an acidicbroadcast fertilizer that includes feather meal, cottonseed meal, bonemeal, langeinite, kelp meal, and greensand. This mixture of naturalnutrients and trace minerals provides an excellent balance for growth ofplants with an affinity for acid. Peat moss is a natural product thatadds a certain acidity to the soil and helps keep the topsoil blendsufficiently dry until it is blown onto the selected surface. Menefeehumate is an example of an organic waste product high in humic acids andcarbon. It is used to promote general soil health; to hold, throughanion and cadion exchanges, nutrients for plant growth; to promote goodsoil tilth; and to increase soil organic matter (humus), microbialactivity, and microbial count.

[0040] Aggregates add to the mix increased permeability of the topsoil,blowability (e g., the ability of the topsoil to feed through the hopperand the hose) of the topsoil, and the solid matter to which the additionof decomposing organic matter makes it into soil, thus duplicatingnature's process. An example of aggregate material may be any one of thefollowing, or any combination of the following: granulithic with sand,clean granulithic, or ¼″ pea gravel with sand. The granulithic with sandis a product with course sand already mixed in. The clean granulithic isa product that requires coarse sand to be added. The approximate ratioof clean granulithic material to sand is 8-9 cubic yards of cleangranulithic material to 3-4 cubic yards of coarse sand. The ¼″ peagravel is a product that requires sand to be added. The approximateratio of ¼″ pea gravel to coarse sand is 7-8 cubic yards of pea gravelto 4-5 cubic yards of coarse sand.

[0041] Groco mulch is an example of a ground/composted organic materialmixed with an organic waste product. It adds organic matter to the soil.Alternatively, dried fine compost may be used in place of groco mulch,or in combination with the groco mulch, such as in an approximate ratioof half groco mulch and half dried fine compost. The dried fine composthas a preferable maximum particle length of less than approximately ⅝″,and more preferably has a maximum particle length of less thanapproximately ¼″.

[0042] Greensand is an example of a sand rich in potassium and traceminerals. It has a unique tilth-enhancing property and performs likehumus in the soil, unbinding heavy clay soil and increasing the moistureretention of sandy soil. Greensand builds long-term fertility andimproves the soil caution exchange capacity and physical structure.Because of the greensand's ability to break up clay particles, thegreensand acts as a bonding agent between the new blown topsoil andexisting hard clay or other layers on the surface receiving the topsoil.The greensand, thus, gives plant roots the possibility of penetratingthe sublayers of soil. The greensand may be added to the topsoil blendor may be applied directly to the existing subgrade prior to placing thetopsoil. The amount of greensand varies dependent both on the density ofthe existing soil and on the anticipated thickness of the topsoil layerto be applied.

[0043] The topsoil blend of this illustrative embodiment retains asufficient amount of water to promote rapid growth of the root systems.The effect of fast and expansive root growth in the topsoil is thatstability of the hillsides is increased by the plant materials. The fastroot growth within the soil creates extensive root systems. These rootsystems help prevent against trees or shrubs uprooting in heavy winds.Extensive root systems means good plant stability which in turn createsgood ground stability.

[0044] Another advantage of this topsoil blend is its ability to resistthe impact of rain due to the aggregates. In a relatively short periodof time some of the gravel becomes exposed on the surface of the soil.When hit by rain, the exposed gravel diffuses the velocity of theraindrops and therefore prevents the micro-impact of little craters thatcause erosion.

[0045] In alternative embodiments, the ingredients of the topsoil blendare varied depending on the needs for the particular plants, or locationof the application of the topsoil blend. The illustrated topsoil blenddescribed above provides a blend of ingredients that meet the needs ofthe local plants or vegetation. The topsoil blend, however, can beadapted to provide a blend of ingredients for use in any region usingavailable materials to meet the needs of the local vegetation withoutdeviating from and still adhering to the basic formula'scharacteristics.

[0046] The topsoil blend has a very low moisture content to start withthat allows the topsoil to be blown with air through the hoses moreeffectively. Preferably the moisture content of the topsoil blend duringthe blowing operation is less than 30% relative moisture content, morepreferably the relative moisture content is less than 20%, and mostpreferably the relative moisture content is less than 15%. The topsoil'singredients are in a relatively dry condition when mixed together, andsome of the ingredients, such as dried/ground/compressed fiberousplant-based materials and fired/calcined diatomaceous earth, help tofurther dry out the completed mixture.

[0047] The actual process of mixing the topsoil may be done by afront-end loader at a batch plant. The front-end loader has thecapability of laying the topsoil out to dry to a selected moisturecontent, which will then allow it to be put in the hopper and blown intoplace on site. Spreading out the mixture to dry is done in as thin alayer as possible depending on the space available. The topsoil blendmay be dried by the sun or alternatively it may be mechanically dried toreduce the moisture content. After drying the topsoil mixture, it may beloaded into trucks and transported to the site. Moisture will be addedto the topsoil blend by rainwater, irrigation water, or an aerobiccompost tea application as the topsoil is blown into place.

[0048]FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic overview for one application of thepresent invention. The soil distribution system 8 includes a combinationof several pieces of equipment, including a generator 10, a pump 12, ahopper 14 connected to the pump, a topsoil hose 16 connected to thehopper and the pump, and a conveyor belt truck 18 having a conveyor belt22 that delivers the selected topsoil blend to the hopper. The topsoilblend 20 is trucked to the site 5 and loaded on the conveyor belt 22.The conveyor belt 22 loads the topsoil blend 20 into the speciallyadapted hopper 14 in a controlled and even manner. As best seen in FIGS.2 and 3, the hopper 14 contains an enlarged, rotating agitator 24 thatstirs the topsoil blend 20 to prevent clogging as the hopper 14 funnelsthe topsoil blend 20 through the pump 12 and into the hose 16. The pump12 of this embodiment is a gunite pump, although other pumps can be usedto move the topsoil blend from the hopper 14 and through the hose 16 ata desired velocity and volume. The hose 16 length of the illustratedembodiment is approximately 350 450 feet, although shorter or longerhose lengths could be used.

[0049] The pump 12 pumps the dry topsoil blend 20 through the hose 16 toan open free end of the hose positioned on the slope onto which thetopsoil is being blown. As the dry topsoil blend 20 is blown through thehose 16 and out the open free end, a worker on the slope directs thehose's free end to spray the topsoil blend onto the desired areas of theslope. The worker thus controls the hose and can, as an example,specifically direct the topsoil blend to hard-to-reach areas on theslope.

[0050] In one embodiment, the topsoil blend 20 is sprayed through thehose 16 and is combined at the hose's open free end with a liquidaerobic compost tea 30. The compost tea 30 is sprayed simultaneouslythrough a smaller hose 32 coupled to the other topsoil hose and out of aseparate nozzle 34 secured adjacent to the free end of the topsoil hose16 (see FIG. 4). As shown in FIG. 4, the two hoses 16, 32 may be securedtogether with duct tape 36 or equivalent means so both hoses 16, 32 movetogether around the hillside during a spraying operation. In thisillustrated embodiment, the topsoil blend 20 and the compost tea 30intermix in the air during the blowing operation and are spreadsimultaneously. Thus, at the point the topsoil blend 20 hits the groundit not only already has moisture in it via the compost tea, but also hasthe micro-organisms from the compost tea in it to start activating thesoil.

[0051] The aerobic compost tea spray is intermixed with the blowntopsoil as the soil exits the hose and before it lands in place. The teaspray has a nozzle that the hose operator can use to control theapplication rate of the aerobic compost tea. The tea spray nozzle has alocking mechanism that allows it to be on constantly. The tea spraynozzle is attached so that it is at an angle relative to the topsoilhose, so the compost tea sprays into the flow of topsoil blend and theyare combining in mid air before landing in place. By intermixing the teaspray with the topsoil blend as they exit their respective hoses, themicro-organisms are able to begin immediate multiplication.

[0052] As best seen in FIG. 1, the aerobic compost tea 30 is distributedfrom a separate spray unit 40, has a separate tank 37, a pump 38, thehose 32, a trigger, and the nozzle 34. The tank 37 of the spray unit 40can vary in size, as an example, from 50 gallons to up to 500 gallons.The tank 37 may be mounted on a trailer (as shown in FIG. 1), mounted ona truck, or may be a stand-alone tank delivered to the site.

[0053] In an alternative embodiment, greensand may be used as aprecursor to the blown topsoil, or as an addition to the mix. Greensandis a natural mined mineral composite that breaks up clay particles andhelps create a bond between the existing soil and the new topsoil mixthat is blown onto it. In another alternative embodiment, earthworms areadded to the topsoil after it is blown or otherwise transported onto theslope or other selected location. The earthworms promote permeability-ofthe soil In still another alternative embodiment, a blowing truck may beused to distribute the topsoil blend 20 and the compost tea 30 if used.This equipment would allow the topsoil blend to be pumped to and blownin place in a wide range of areas, such as rooftop gardens, over the topof obstructions, or across ravines.

[0054] The blown topsoil blend 20 is adapted to be used on very steepslopes without netting. After the topsoil blend is blown into place, thetopsoil is capable of receiving tremendous amounts of precipitationsubstantially without showing signs of erosion. The topsoil blend 20 isable to hold enough moisture for plant growth, while allowing excessmoisture to percolate out of the soil and drain naturally on the groundsurface.

[0055] The topsoil blend 20 as illustrated is a totally organic mixturethat enhances the environment, supports healthy plant growth, and doesnot leach chemical substances into groundwater, lakes, or farmyards. Thetopsoil blend 20 can be placed onto difficult-to-reach hillsides,landslides, backyards, vineyards, orchards, and the like, or where it iscost-prohibitive to otherwise place topsoil using conventionaltechniques. The method of blowing the topsoil blend 20 and intermixingthe aerobic compost tea 30 simultaneously provides the additionaladvantages as described above of cost efficiency and effectiveness. Thetopsoil blend 20 has been used on severe landslide restoration projectsin a cost-efficient manner.

[0056] An example of an application of the process described above wasconducted in the Pacific Northwest of the United States as follows. Alandslide on a 1 to 1.17 slope removed substantially all permeabletopsoil and vegetation leaving exposed a hard, virtually impermeableclay layer. Native plants remaining around the perimeter of the slidearea included maples, alder, blackberries and sword ferns. The landslideon this property was narrower at the top of the bank, approximately 35feet wide, and grew to approximately 120 feet wide at the bottom. Thearea of slope restoration area receiving the blown topsoil blend 20 wasapproximately 7,500 square feet.

[0057] The process included clearing the hillside of unwanted debris,such as brush and blocks of loose clay. The hard clay was treated with alayer of greensand to break down the clay particles so as to promote abond between the topsoil blend 20 and the slope, and to allow rootpenetration into the sublayers of soil. Spreading of the greensand wasdone by hand using buckets. A system of scaffolding planks and rampingwas set up for access to the slide area, and this system was used tospread the greensand. The greensand was applied at a rate of 5 to 10pounds per square foot. After this, the slope was ready to receive theblown topsoil blend.

[0058] The specialized topsoil blend 20 as described above was mixedoffsite and dried to an appropriate moisture content. Conveyor belttrucks 14 picked up the topsoil blend 20 from the offsite mixinglocation and delivered it to the site. Each conveyor belt truck 14 loadsthe topsoil blend 20 into the hopper 14 in a controlled manner. Theoperator maneuvered the conveyor belt 22 by remote control, whichpermitted flexibility and allowed for optimum positioning of theconveyor belt 22 with respect to the hopper 14.

[0059] The conveyor belt truck can haul up to 10 to 12 yards of thetopsoil blend in one load, therefore, three trucks were used to maintaina constant flow of the topsoil blend to the hopper. The number ofconveyor belt trucks used varies depending on the distance between thesite and the offsite batch plant, and the application rate of thetopsoil blend.

[0060] The pump equipment used to blow the topsoil blend on this sliderestoration project was a gunite pump, Jet-Creter, Model 450. As shownin FIGS. 2 and 3, the hopper 14 was specially adapted by installing alarger agitator 24 designed to improve soil flow into a blow chamber byincreasing the agitation motion which reduced soil clogging. Thisagitator 24 is a longer-armed agitator 24 that reaches out from thecentrifugal core 26 and goes up the sides of the hopper 14 to withinapproximately 6 inches of the top of the hopper 14. Half inch diameterreinforcing steel was used to form the arms of the agitator 24.

[0061] The rate of topsoil blend 20 conveyed into the hopper 14 isadjusted as a function of the intake of the topsoil blend 20 from thehopper 14 into the rotor chamber. The rotor chamber will clog if therate of topsoil 20 into the hopper 14 is too fast, therefore, the inputinto the hopper 14 should match the output rate. A gunite pump works onthe principle of air stream conveyance. The dry topsoil blend 20 istransported from the hopper 14 through a rotor chamber's topsoil hoseinto the air chamber and from there it is pushed through the topsoilhose 16. With the help of an adjustable compressed air stream, thetopsoil blend 20 is transported through a topsoil hose 16 and sprayedout the open free end.

[0062] The topsoil blend's moisture content is kept below a selectedvalue, such as approximately 30%, to allow the topsoil blend 20 to flowthrough the topsoil hose 16. Therefore, the topsoil can be effected bythe amount of moisture in the air. So, if it rains during the sprayingoperation, a protective cover may be needed over the conveyor belt 22and the hopper 14 in order to control moisture content in the topsoilblend 20. The conveyor truck may also have a cover on it to protect thetopsoil blend 20 from unwanted additional moisture.

[0063]FIG. 5 is a schematic flow chart of the start-up procedure usedfor this operation. The equipment was checked prior to the topsoil blendbeing added to the hopper to make sure it was functioning properly. Oncethe equipment was functioning, soil was conveyed into the hopper,rotated through the hopper by the agitator and blown through the hoseinto place.

[0064] In this example, the topsoil blend was blown through a 3 ½ inchoutside diameter (OD), 2 ½ inch inside diameter (ID), reinforced rubberflexible hose 16, similar to that used for shotcrete or concretepumping, but with no nozzle at the end. The topsoil hose 16 is openended so that no restriction impedes the flow of the topsoil blend 20.The rate of application of the topsoil blend 20 averaged 4.5 cubic yardsper hour. This rate of application controls the rate of soil conveyedinto the hopper 14. The topsoil blend 20 is pumped through the hose 16at a sufficient pressure so the topsoil blend 20 will shootapproximately an additional 25 feet from the hose's free end, dependingon the angle of the hose 16.

[0065] The support staff required for a topsoil dispensing project willvary depending on the site conditions. In this exemplary operation atthe slide location, one person was positioned at the conveyor truckcontrolling the topsoil fed into the hopper 14. One person was at thehopper 14 controlling air pressure and the hopper. Two people werepositioned on the slope to control the hose's free end. Headphones withmicrophones were used for communication between the people on the worksite. In another embodiment, another person would be needed to signalthe hopper and conveyor operators. This individual would stand at thetop of the slope, overseeing the application and communicating with thehose operator via a hand-held radio or headphones. This person signalsthe hopper and conveyor operator and the hose operator, acting as acommunication liaison between the two.

[0066] The topsoil hose was coupled together onsite, and two peopledescended the hillside to couple together the sections of hose. The hosewas in 10 foot to 20 foot sections. The sections of hose are lowereddown the slope from the top of the slope using one or more ropes. Theropes may stay on individual hose sections if desired, for example,depending on the severity of the slope, the length of the run, etc. Theropes also serve to retrieve the hose when the spraying operation iscomplete. The ropes may also be used to support the hose on the hillsidewhen the weight of the topsoil makes it difficult to maneuver the hose.

[0067] Operation of the topsoil hose 16 included two operators; one atthe open free end, and a second approximately 8 to 10 feet up the hosefrom the free end. This second operator helped to steady the topsoilhose during the blowing procedure and to help relieve tension from thehose so that the main hose operator at the free end could move aroundfreely to direct the flow of the topsoil blend. If bucking in the hoseoccurs during the blowing process, and this second operator can alsoassist in controlling the hose motion during application. The mainoperator held the hose under control at all times, for example, byslinging it either over a shoulder covered with a shoulder pad, or heldagainst the side of the body with a sling.

[0068] In areas of existing vegetation, defense boards, such as sectionsof ¼ plywood, may be used to protect the vegetation on the slope. Theseboards also keep the topsoil blend out of unwanted areas, controloverspray, and allow the topsoil blend to be blown right up to the edgeof the area to be protected.

[0069] Application of the topsoil blend on the site coveredapproximately 7,500 square feet at a rate of approximately 4.5 cubicyards per hour. A total of 160 cubic yards of topsoil blend was appliedat a depth ranging from approximately 4 to 12 inches, depending on thearea and needs of the slope. Areas supporting particular plants, in thiscase, dwarf bamboo, needed only approximately 3 to 4 inches of thetopsoil blend. Other planting areas, in this case, vine maples,rhododendrons and ferns, needed a depth of approximately 6 to 12 inchesof the topsoil blend. For areas in which larger trees were to beplanted, pocket areas Were given up to 4 feet of topsoil blend in orderto accommodate the large root balls. Application of the topsoil blend 20through the hose allows precision placement of soil in substantially anyarea in order to meet the needs of the particular slope or siterequirements. This illustrative project took a total of approximately 35hours of blowing over a period of 4 days, including initial setup andfinal breakdown of equipment. FIG. 6 is a schematic flow chart of theshut-down procedure used in this example of a soil blowing operation.

[0070] After the topsoil blend 20 is distributed over the selected area,vegetation can immediately start to grow to increase the stability ofthe area. The topsoil blend 20 allows root growth that can be anywherefrom 3 to 6 times faster than in the majority of other man-madetopsoils. This is exceptionally important when dealing with landsliderestoration. On the particular site described in the above example,plants were installed very late in the year and had little chance fordeep root development before the dormant winter season. Stabilization ofthe slope during the rainy winter months thus was predominantlymaintained by the action of the topsoil blend itself. The dormant winterseason included a significant amount of rain. During this heavyrainfall, the topsoil blend remained stable, and no substantial crackingor settling was observed. Drainage was natural and the hillside was notstressed.

[0071] This result was not unexpected, because the stability of thetopsoil blend on the steep slope was tested before completion of theproject. The testing included spraying a 10 foot by 10 foot area of thetopsoil blend (with no vegetation) with water, at a rate of 35 gallonsper minute for over one minute. This is equivalent to one-half inch ofrainfall in one minute. There was no substantive damage to the topsoilblend on the slope. Some of the water was absorbed by the topsoil blend,and the excess water within the topsoil blend drained out in a naturalmanner. The topsoil blend on the slope remained stable, and showed nosigns of cracks or settling.

[0072] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, the followingExamples more specifically disclose various aspects of the presentinvention.

EXAMPLE 1

[0073] Several samples of various soil mixture in accordance with thepresent invention were analyzed. The analysis included assessment oftotal and active bacteria, total and active fungi, flagellates, ciliatesand amoebae (the three groups of the protozoa) and nematodes identifiedto genus and usually species if possible). Mycorrlizal fungi wereassessed as well (to the extent that roots were included in the samplematerial).

[0074] In three specific samples tested, the blown soil mixture wasfound to contain excellent numbers of total (between 282 to 432 μg pergram dry weight of material) and active (26.6 to 38.4 μg per gram)bacteria. The material contained between 5.1 and 10.6 μg active fungalbiomass per gram of material, and typically between 101 and 205 μg totalfungal biomass per gram of material. Protozoan numbers were alwaysoutstanding, assuring high nutrient cycling and nutrient availabilityfor plants grown in the material. Only beneficial nematodes were foundin the blown soil mixture, which should prevent pest-nematodes fromgaining a foothold in the soils to which this material is applied.

[0075] These organism numbers are precisely what grasses and annualplants require for best growth. Accordingly, it is believed that, quitelow, if any, inorganic fertilizer additions would be required. Withexcellent soil health, plants can typically withstand most diseasechallenges.

[0076] Most landscaping materials do not contain significant amounts ofbeneficial life. In general, most landscaping materials containdisease-causing organisms or have been steam-treated or sterilized toreduce disease-causing organisms in the material instead of taking theapproach of enhancing the beneficial life in the material Lack ofcompetitors, inhibitors or predators in landscape materials allowsdisease-causing organisms to gain the upper hand early in plant growth.

[0077] Specific test data is provided below in the following tables.Organism Biomass Data Dry Weight Active Total Active Total of 1 gramBacterial Bacterial Fungal Fungal Sample Fresh Biomass Biomass BiomassBiomass # Material (μg/g) (μg/g) (μg/g) (μg/g) 80910 0.73 12.3 277 0.016 Medina Slope OK Great! Good! Low. Maybe Low dry in the recent past sono active? Desired Field 1.0-5.0 100-150 1.0-5.0 100-300 Range CapacityTotal Percent Hyphal Nematode Mycorrhizal Diameter Protozoa Numbers /gNumbers Colonization (nm) Flagellates Amoebae Ciliates (#/g) of Root 2.5NR NR NR NR NR OK (A) 5.000+ 5.000+ 50-100 20-30 40%-80% # matter levelmust be considered in determining optional foodweb structure. If sampleinformation, such as pesticide use, fertilizer use, tillage irrigation,etc. are not included on the submission form, we assume local conditionsbased on client's address. One report is sent to the mailing address onthe # submission form. This is perplexing, given that the material isstaying so well in-place on such a steep slope. The story seems to be inthe bacteria, not the fungi. Good, sticky bacteria!

[0078] Organism Ratios Plant Total Active Available Fungal to Active toActive to Fungal to N Supply Root- Leaf Organism Assay Total Total TotalActive from Feeding Percent Leaf Sample Bacterial Fungal BacterialBacterial Predators Nematode Surface Covered by # Biomass BiomassBiomass Biomass (lbs/ac) Presence Bacteria Fungi 80910 0.06 0.00 0.040,00 NA NA NA NA Medina slope Very No active OK OK No active bacterialdetected fungi which is detected good for annuals, but need fungi forperennials Desired (1) (2) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (6) Range

[0079] Organism Biomass Data Dry Weight Active Total Active Total of 1gram Bacterial Bacterial Fungal Fungal Sample Fresh Biomass BiomassBiomass Biomass # Material (μg/g) (μg/g) (μg/g) (μg/g) 81618 0.68 26.6282 10.6 11 Nelson Blown Topsoil OK Excellent Excellent Good In thepast, ! ! something was done that killed the fungi. However, goodrecovery is occurring Desired Field 1.0-5.0 75-100 1.0-5.0 50-75 RangeCapacity Total Percent Hyphal Nematode Mycorrhizal Diameter ProtozoaNumbers /g Numbers Colonization (nm) Flagellates Amoebae Ciliates (#/g)of Root 2.5 67.286 84.050 250 9.3 35 Excellent numbers of protozoa, GoodOK—given good nutrient cycling is numbers, total fungal occurring whichmeans the but only results. VAM grass will manage quite well bacterial-were likely this winter, and be ready feeders. negatively to green upquite nicely Diversity affected next spring when is too and temperatureswarm low to just now fully recovering protect roots (A) 5.000+ 5.000+50-100 10-20 40%-80%

[0080] Organism Ratios Plant Total Active Available Fungal Active toActive to Fungal to N Supply Root- Leaf Organism Assay to Total TotalTotal Active from Feeding Percent Leaf Sample Bacterial Fungal BacterialBacterial Predators Nematode Surface Covered by # Biomass BiomassBiomass Biomass (lbs/ac) Presence Bacteria Fungi 81618 0.04 0.98 0.090.40 350-400 None NR NR Nelson Detected Blown Topsoil Very Fungi are OKBacteria Excellent But bacterial recovering are nutrient diversitybecause so almost growing cycling is too low total all the better toprotect fungi are fungi than roots if killed present fungi, root-previously are but this feeders and just growing Is the “come now verydesired calling”. recovering rapidly situation Need for grass beneficialnematode inoculum Desired (1) (2) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (6) Range

[0081] Organism Biomass Data Dry Weight Active Total Active Total of 1gram Bacterial Bacterial Fungal Fungal Sample Fresh Biomass BiomassBiomass Biomass # Material (μg/g) (μg/g) (μg/g) (μg/g) 82007 0.72 38.4432 7.4 205 Top of Slope 82008 0.71 31.4 329 5.1 101 Bottom of SlopeGood Very high Very high A bit low Good! moisture Desired Field 10-1575-100 10-15 50-75 Range Capacity Total Percent Hyphal NematodeMycorrhizal Diameter Protozoa Numbers /g Numbers Colonization (nm)Flagellates Amoebae Ciliates (#/g) of Root 2.5 212,968 387,203 81 33.5NR 2.5 19,460 64,655 1,946 11.3 NR OK Excellent numbers, great nutrientGreat cycling in top of slope, numbers! but anaerobic at bottom ofslope. Limited Drainage will need improvement diversity (A) 5.000+5.000+ 50-100 10-20 40%-80%

[0082] Organism Ratios Leaf Plant Organism Total Active Available AssayFungal Active to Active to Fungal to N Supply Root- Percent Leaf toTotal Total Total Active from Feeding Surface Sample Bacterial FungalBacterial Bacterial Predators Nematode Covered by # Biomass BiomassBiomass Biomass (lbs/ac) Presence Bacteria Fungi 82007 0.47 0.04 0.090.19 400 + None NR NR 82008 0.31 0.05 0.10 0.16 300 but Detected Nlosses Good for High High Very Anaerobic Excellent, grass total, total,bacterial in bottom but low low need to of slope. limited active activeencourage Need diversity. suggests suggests fungi drainage Need tooxygen oxygen more. add an limita- limita- Fungal inoculum tions tionsfood of addition beneficial might be nematodes a good idea Desired (1)(2) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (6) Range

EXAMPLE 2

[0083] Laboratory tests were completed to measure the shear strength ofa soil mixture in accordance with the present invention so as toevaluate its ability to remain stable on steep slopes. This Examplesummarizes the testing methods and the laboratory test results.

[0084] Two types of strength testing were completed: (1) direct sheartesting, and (2) tilting table tests. The direct shear test is astrength test where a soil sample is sheared across a horizontalsurface. The stress required to shear the sample is recorded This testis usually completed with the sample under some pressure. Typically, theshear strength is proportional to the applied pressure. By comparing thetest results at various pressures, a friction angle of the soil can becalculated. The friction angle is a commonly used measure of shearstrength for a granular (i.e., sand) soil.

[0085] For the tilting table tests, a square sample is placed on asmooth board and the board is gradually tilted. The angle at whichsliding of the sample occurs is noted. In general, the tilt angle issimilar to the friction angle discussed above.

[0086] The results from the direct shear tests indicate that thefriction angle is about 45 degrees. For comparison, the strongestglacially deposited soils have similar friction angles. The tiltingtable tests indicate that the friction angle is in excess of 50 degrees.In fact, in one test, the table was tilted 72 degrees before the samplebegan to slide.

[0087] A soil mixture was also obsereved on a steep slope in Medina,Wash. The slope is about 100 feet high and much steeper 100 percent. Wedid not observe that the topsoil mix had sloughed, nor did we observeindications that there were stability problems on the slope. Theseobservations seem to confirm that the strength of the topsoil mix isconsistent with our laboratory test results. The test results indicatethat the soil mixture would likely remain stable on steep slopes.

[0088] Specific test data is provided below in the following tables andin FIGS. B1-5.

Tilt Table Response Summary of Test Data

[0089] Equipment Information:

[0090] Mass of Pan (lb) 0.8103

[0091] Volume of Pan (ft³) 0.0582 TILT TABLE DRY φ for φ for Mass of Drysliding sliding Soil + Pan Mass of Dry Dry Density of surface of entireTrial (lb) Soil (lb) (pcf) material block 1 4.46 3.65 62.63 41 43 2 4 263.45 59.30 NR 39.5 3 4.42 3.61 61.96 44 46 4 4.34 3.53 60.65 NR 42 54.25 3.44 59.12 41 43

[0092]

TILT TABLE SATURATED Mass of Mass Mass of Mass Dry of Wet of AngleSoil + Dry Dry Soil + Wet Wet of Pan Soil Density Pan Soil Densitysliding Trial (lb) (lb) (pcf) (lb) (lb) (pcf) block 1 4.52 3.71 63.766.33 5.52 94.86 >50* 2 4.23 3.42 58.75 5.85 5.04 86.54 61** 3 4.32 3.5160 27 6.19 5.38 92 39 72

Summary of φ from Various Testing Methods

[0093] Angle of repose 40 Direct shear 45 Tilt Table Dry 42.7

[0094] DIRECT SHEAR TEST NO. SUMMARY OF TEST DATA Boring Tested By/DateWLB Aug. 26, 1999 Sample Calc. By/Date WLB Aug. 27, 1999 Depth ft CheckBy/Date                  CLASSIFICATION: SPECIMEN DATA: Before TestHeight, inches: 1.491 Diameter, inches: 4.500 Wet Density, pcf: 60:2SAMPLE DATA: Dry Density, pcf: 58.5 Spec. Grave. (est.): Initial WaterContent, %: 3.0 2.50 Specimen: Final Water Content, %: 65.4 UNDISTURBEDHanger + Lever Tare, kg: 7.01 Load on Hanger, kg: .00 Load on Lever, kg:.00 Normal Stress, tsf: .07 Shear Defl. Const. .000000 in/div: ShearLoad Const., .328 kg/div: Normal Defl. Const. .001 in/div:

[0095] Shear Normal Shear Elapsed Deft. Defl. Load Shear Normal ShearTime Read Read Read. Displ. Displ. Shear Stress min. div Div div InchesInches Strain % tsf 2.0 32.0 1.0 8.0 .000 .0010 .0 .03 5.0 80.0 2.1 11.0.000 .0021 .0 .04 7.0 134.0 2.8 13.0 .000 .0028 .0 .04 10.0 224.0 3.116.0 .000 .0031 .0 .05 12.0 285.0 2.3 17.0 .000 .0023 .0 .06 15.0 377.0.8 19.0 .000 .0008 .0 .06 17.0 439.0 −1.2 20.0 .000 −.0012 .0 .07 20.0533.0 −4.2 21.0 .000 −.0042 .0 .07 22.0 594.0 −4.5 21.5 .000 −.0045 .0.07

[0096] The above description of illustrated embodiments and Examples ofthe invention is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the inventionto the precise form disclosed. While specific embodiments of, andexamples for, the invention are described herein for illustrativepurposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scopeof the invention, as those skilled in a relevant art will recognize. Theteachings provided herein of the invention can be applied to other soilmixtures and soil placement systems.

[0097] The various embodiments described can be combined to providefurther embodiments. Aspects of the invention can be modified, ifnecessary, to employ the systems, mixtures, and concepts of the variouspatents and applications described above to provide yet furtherembodiments of the invention.

[0098] These and other changes can be made to the invention in light tothe above detailed description. In general, in the following claims, theterms should not be construed to limit the invention to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should beconstrued to include all soil placement systems that operate under theclaims to provide a method for blowing topsoil. Accordingly, theinvention is not limited by the disclosure, but instead the scope of theinvention is to be determined entirely by the following claims to theinvention.

1. A soil distribution system adapted for blowing a soil mixture ontoselected places on flat or sloped surfaces, comprising: a topsoil pumphaving first and second ends; a mixing hopper connected to the pump atthe first end; a first topsoil hose having a distribution end and a soilintake end, the first topsoil hose being connected to the second end ofthe pump via the soil intake end; a tank for holding a liquid soilmixture additive, the tank having an outlet portal; a second liquidadditive hose having a discharge end and a liquid intake end, the secondliquid additive hose being connected to the outlet portal of the tankvia the liquid intake end; wherein the distribution end of the firsttopsoil hose and the discharge end of the second liquid additive hoseare in operational relationship with each other such that when the soildistribution system is in operation, the soil mixture and the liquidadditive are capable of intermixing during the blowing of the soilmixture.
 2. The soil distribution system of claim 1, further comprisingan adjustable nozzle connected to the discharge end of the second liquidadditive hose, the nozzle being adapted to control the intermixing ofthe soil mixture and the liquid additive during the blowing of the soilmixture.
 3. The soil distribution system of claim 2, further comprisinga conveyor belt delivery system adapted to deliver the soil mixture tothe mixing hopper.
 4. The soil distribution system of claim 3 whereinthe pump is a gunite pump.
 5. The soil distribution system of claim 4wherein the hopper includes a rotatable agitator adapted to preventclogging of the mixing hopper when the soil distribution system is inoperation.
 6. The soil distribution system of claim 5 wherein the mixinghopper has walls defined by a frusto conical shape, and includes acentrifugal core mounting lug defining a rotating axis, and wherein theagitator comprises: a mounting base releaseably engagable to themounting lug in the mixing hopper the mounting base laterally orientedwith respect to the rotating axis; at lease one support arm coupled tothe mounting base; at least two mixing arms having a first end and asecond end, the first end of the mixing arms coupled to the at least onesupport arm, the second end spaced apart from the second end of anadjacent mixing arm, the mixing arm extending vertically oriented withrespect to the rotating axis and substantially aligned with the walls ofthe mixing hopper.
 7. The soil distribution system of claim 6 whereinthe agitator further comprises: at least two support arms; and at leastone interconnecting brace member having a first and a second end, theinterconnecting brace extending laterally oriented with respect to therotating base, the first end of the brace member coupled to the firstsupport arm and the second end coupled to the second support arm whereinthe brace member provides structural rigidity to the agitator.
 8. Amethod for blowing a soil mixture onto selected places on flat or slopedsurfaces, comprising the steps of: providing the soil distributionsystem of claim 1; blowing the soil mixture onto the selected places onthe flat or sloped surfaces.
 9. A soil mixture adapted for use with asoil distribution system that is capable of blowing the soil mixtureonto selected places associated with flat or sloped surfaces,comprising: an organic fertilizer component that consists essentially ofplant residues and a first animal excrement component, wherein theamount of the organic fertilizer component ranges from about 1 to 3pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture; a feathermeal component thatconsists essentially of ground poultry feathers, wherein the amount ofthe feathermeal component ranges from about 4 to 8 pounds per cubic yardof the soil mixture; an aggregate component that includes gravel,wherein the amount of the aggregate component ranges from about 1200 to1600 pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture; a composted organicmaterial component that consists essentially of sawdust and a secondanimal excrement component, wherein the composted organic materialcomponent includes a plurality of discrete particles with each of theplurality of particles having a length of less than ⅝ of an inch, andwherein the amount of the composted organic material component rangesfrom about 200 to 700 pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture; anorganic waste component that is at least about 35% humic acid by weight,wherein the amount of the organic waste component ranges from about 20to 30 pounds of the soil mixture; a kelp meal component that consistsessentially of ground kelp, wherein the amount of the kelp mealcomponent ranges from about 2 to 4 pounds per cubic yard of the soilmixture; a peat moss component in an amount that ranges from about 18 to25 pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture; a ground or granular rockphosphate component in an amount that ranges from about 0.5 to 3 poundsper cubic yard of the soil mixture; a sand component in an amount thatranges from about 100 to 700 pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture;and a sawdust component in an amount ranging from about 155 to 300pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture.
 10. The soil mixture of claim9 wherein the organic fertilizer component has a NPK rating of about6-4-4.
 11. The soil mixture of claim 9 wherein the feathermeal componenthas a NPK rating of about 12-1-0.
 12. The soil mixture of claim 9wherein the sand component is greensand.
 13. The soil mixture of claim 9wherein the first and second animal excrements are the same ordifferent.
 14. The soil mixture of claim 9, further comprising abloodmeal component in an amount that ranges up to about 3 pounds percubic yard of the soil mixture.
 15. The soil mixture of claim 14,wherein the blood meal component has a NPK rating of about 13-1-0. 16.The soil mixture of claim 9, further comprising a diatomaceous earthcomponent in an amount ranging up to about 500 pounds per cubic yard ofthe soil mixture.
 17. The soil mixture of claim 9, further comprising acorn gluten component in an amount ranging up to about 8 pounds percubic yard of the soil mixture.
 18. The soil mixture of claim 9, furthercomprising a plurality of mycorrihiza spores.
 19. The soil mixture ofclaim 9, further comprising lime in an amount ranging up to about 3pounds per cubic yard of the soil mixture.
 20. The soil mixture of claim9, further comprising an aerobic compost tea in an amount ranging up toabout 5 gallons per cubic yard of the soil mixture.
 21. An agitatoradapted for use in a mixing hopper having walls defined by a frustoconical shape, and a centrifugal core mounting lug defining a rotatingaxis, the agitator comprising: a mounting base releaseably engagable tothe mounting lug in the mixing hopper the mounting base laterallyoriented with respect to the rotating axis; at lease one support armcoupled to the mounting base; at least two mixing arms having a firstend and a second end, the first end of the mixing arms coupled to the atleast one support arm, the second end spaced apart from the second endof an adjacent mixing arm, the mixing arm extending vertically orientedwith respect to the rotating axis and substantially aligned with thewalls of the mixing hopper.
 22. The agitator of claim 1 furthercomprising: at least two support arms; and at least one interconnectingbrace member having a first and a second end, the interconnecting braceextending laterally oriented with respect to the rotating base, thefirst end of the brace member coupled to the first support arm and thesecond end coupled to the second support arm wherein the brace memberprovides structural rigidity to the agitator.